- New Zealand vs Egypt Prediction: Expert analysis, key players to watch, team news, and betting insights.
- The game will be played at BC Place in Vancouver.
- The match will kick off at 4am on Monday.
New Zealand and Egypt will be chasing their first wins in the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament when they lock horns early Monday morning at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.
The two sides played to draws in their opening matches with New Zealand forced to a 2-2 draw after losing the lead twice against Iran while Egypt succumbed to an own goal as they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against a Belgium side that went unbeaten in their World Cup qualification campaign in the other Group G encounter.
Heading into the game, the Pharaohs will need Salah to continue the impressive international form that saw him play a role in 60% of their goals in an unbeaten qualifying campaign (nine goals, three assists).
They will face a New Zealand side still targeting their first ever victory at the FIFA World Cup when they turn up for the clash.
It is 16 years since the All Whites were the only unbeaten side at the finals in South Africa. Ricki Herbert’s side claimed a point in all three of their group games, including a 1-1 draw with reigning champions Italy, but could not avoid a first-round exit.
As Egypt, looks up to Salah, the All Whites will be hoping for inspiration from their talisman Chris Wood – the only member of the 2010 squad also at the 2026 tournament.
Wood is New Zealand’s all-time leading marksman and appearance maker and top-scored in the OFC qualifying section with nine goals in five games.
And at 34, the Nottingham Forest forward will be desperate to grasp his opportunity to shine on the biggest stage of all.
What time does New Zealand vs Egypt kick off?
The New Zealand vs Egypt clash in the FIFA World Cup 2026 will kick off on Monday at 4am.
New Zealand vs Egypt Team News
Chris Wood is expected to lead the line and provide goals for the All Whites. Motherwell forward Elijah Just is also expected to retain his place after scoring a brace in the opening match.
For Egypt, Salah is expected to lead the charge alongside Man City’s Omar Marmoush and Al Ahly star Emam Ashour.
New Zealand vs Egypt H2H and current form
These two sides have met only once in their history, a 2024 friendly meeting that ended in a 1-0 win.
Current Form
New Zealand: LWLLD
Egypt: WDWLD
New Zealand vs Egypt prediction
This game could prove to be a very tight affair that could be decided by key moments and execution. Egypt however head into the game as slight favourites and, backed by an attacking line headlined by Salah, could get their first win in the 2026 event.
